Management of pregnancy in systemic lupus erythematosus

Pregnancy in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is increasingly common, as patients' survival and quality of life improve. However, these pregnancies are associated with substantially higher risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality than those in healthy women. Especially in the presence of anti-Ro, anti-La and antiphospholipid antibodies, increased fetal loss, premature births and neonatal syndromes including congenital heart block are major issues. Although success rates of pregnancies have increased considerably, pregnancy management in women with SLE is not optimal. This Review discusses the risk factors and outcomes and proposes a pregnancy planning strategy for women with SLE.